Perfectly Grilled Cod with Homemade Romesco

Ingredients:

For the Cod:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp kosher salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• Lemon wedges, for serving

For the Romesco Sauce:

• 2 roasted red bell peppers (from a jar or freshly roasted)

• 1 medium tomato, roasted or charred

• 3 cloves garlic, roasted (or sautéed until soft)

• ⅓ cup almonds (toasted; hazelnuts also work)

• 2 tbsp sherry vinegar (or red wine vinegar)

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ¼ tsp cayenne (optional, for heat)

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil

• Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Make the Romesco:

   • In a food processor, combine roasted peppers, tomato, garlic, almonds, vinegar, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.

   • Pulse until chunky, then drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth but textured. Adjust seasoning to taste.

2. Prepare the Cod:

   • Pat cod fillets dry and brush with olive oil.

   • Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Grill the Cod:

   • Preheat grill (or grill pan) to medium-high.

   • Oil grates well to prevent sticking.

   • Grill cod 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until opaque and flakes easily.

4. Serve:

   • Spoon romesco sauce on plates, top with grilled cod, and finish with a squeeze of lemon.

   • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.